Unverified images and footage circulating on social media on April 3, 2026, appear to show wreckage of a U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle on Iranian soil, along with combat search and rescue operations in the area.
The debris, including a vertical stabilizer with markings from the 494th Fighter Squadron of the 48th Fighter Wing at RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom, was presented by Iranian media as evidence of a downed F-35 Lightning II. A spokesperson for the IRGC’s Khatam al-Anbia Central Headquarters claimed the aircraft was struck by a new air defense system over central Iran. Analysts note the tail markings, including the U.S. Air Forces in Europe badge and red tail flash, match an F-15E rather than an F-35.
Separate images depict an impact crater with a burn scar in mountainous terrain. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency reported U.S. helicopters and a C-130 conducting search operations in Khuzestan province, claiming the effort failed. Footage shows what appears to be an HC-130, two HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopters, and an MC-130J at low altitude, consistent with standard U.S. Air Force CSAR assets. The IRGC also released an image of an ejection seat matching the ACES II used on F-15Es.
U.S. Central Command has not commented on the debris or rescue claims. It previously debunked an IRGC assertion of downing an F-35 near Qeshm Island on April 2. Some observers suggest the wreckage may relate to a March 2 friendly fire incident over Kuwait involving three F-15Es, where crews ejected safely. Neither the images nor footage have been independently verified.